Integrating Generative AI in Hackathons: Opportunities, Challenges, and Educational Implications
It addresses the educational and ethical challenges of using generative AI in hackathons for students and organizations, but is incremental as it builds on existing research about AI in educational settings.
This study examined how generative AI influences students' technological choices in hackathons, using a case study from the 2023 University of Iowa Hackathon, and proposed strategies for integrating AI to balance innovation, ethics, and education.
Hackathons have emerged as pivotal platforms in the software industry, driving both innovation and skill development for organizations and students alike. These events enable companies to quickly prototype new ideas while offering students practical, hands-on learning experiences. Over time, hackathons have transitioned from purely competitive events to valuable educational tools, integrating theory with real-world problem-solving through collaboration between academia and industry. The infusion of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is now reshaping hackathons, providing enhanced learning opportunities while also introducing ethical challenges. This study explores the influence of generative AI on students' technological choices, focusing on a case study from the 2023 University of Iowa Hackathon. The findings offer insights into AI's role in these events, its educational impact, and propose strategies for integrating such technologies in future hackathons, ensuring a balance between innovation, ethics, and educational value.